Sanctity of Life Flashcards
(15 cards)
What is Pikuach Nefesh?
Pikuach Nefesh refers to the primacy of life, stating that human life is special and takes precedence over anything else.
What is the significance of life in Judaism?
All life is sacred, special, and a gift from God.
Can mitzvot be broken to save a life?
All mitzvot (except 3) can be broken if it is to save a life.
What actions can be taken to save a life on the Sabbath?
One could use a telephone on Sabbath to save a life.
What fasting rules can be broken on Yom Kippur?
Fasting rules can be broken on Yom Kippur to save a life.
What is required of a person in life-threatening situations?
A person must do everything in their power to save the life of another.
How does Pikuach Nefesh impact professionals today?
Doctors, firefighters, and ambulance drivers can work on the Sabbath.
Are abortions allowed in Judaism to save a mother’s life?
Abortions to save the mother’s life are allowed.
Is organ donation permitted in Reform Judaism?
Organ donation is allowed for Reform Jews, despite Tanakh rules about desecration of corpses.
What is the stance on contraception in Reform Judaism?
Reform Jews allow contraception to prevent the spread of HIV.
What is the English translation of the Tanakh?
The Talmud
What does Genesis 1 say about mankind?
“God created mankind in his own image.”
What does Jeremiah 1 convey about God’s knowledge of individuals?
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart.”
What can happen to mitzvot in life-threatening situations?
Some mitzvot can be broken if life is in danger.
“Wherever there is danger to human life, the laws of the Sabbath are suspended.” (Talmud Yoma)
What does the Talmud say about preserving a single soul?
“Whoever preserves a single soul, it is considered as if he had saved an entire world.”
(Talmud Sanhedrin)
